Landis+Gyr today announced it has been selected by Nashville Electric Service to install the smart grid network that will support the utility's immediate advanced metering and demand response needs, while making future smart grid projects easier to implement.

The installation of Landis+Gyr's Gridstream network will enable Nashville Electric Service to meet demand response requirements from power supplier Tennessee Valley Authority, as well as provide high-speed advanced metering and distribution automation communications throughout the utility's service territory.

"We're excited to be moving forward with a proven platform for applications we absolutely need today, but which also will support the future programs we deploy for enhancing the reliability of our system and offering energy management options for our customers tomorrow," said Eddie Andrews, VP Power System Operations, at Nashville Electric Service.

Consistently one of the top-ranked utilities for reliability and customer service, Nashville Electric Service is one of the 12 largest public power utilities in the nation, and provides electric service to over 360,000 customers in Metro Nashville.

The utility plans to deploy Gridstream network infrastructure across its entire service territory as part of the initial deployment phase. This will include the strategic installation of 30,000 advanced meters and 3,000 to 4,000 load control units within the next couple of years. The utility will be able to monitor voltage at the meter to help manage the system voltage, in addition to voluntary customer participation in a two-way direct load control pilot during peak demand periods. About a third of the initial meters will be E350 AX-SD meters with integrated remote service switches.

Once the umbrella communications network is in place, the utility will be able to strategically deploy Gridstream-equipped meters to its remaining consumers as business needs dictate. During 2012, the utility also plans to begin automating control of distribution system equipment, such as capacitor banks, to improve power quality and efficiency.

"This project is another great illustration of how smart grid technology can improve the efficiency of energy distribution systems and help everyone – generators, suppliers and consumers – control costs," said Richard Mora, CEO of Landis+Gyr North America. "We look forward to partnering with Nashville Electric Service and are proud to be part of their successful conservation and customer service enhancements."

Gridstream RF technology uses a powerful radio mesh network to communicate with advanced meters, in-premise devices and distribution automation equipment. In addition to two-way communication with utility devices, Gridstream meters also use the Smart Energy Profile standard for home area network applications, such as smart thermostats, energy monitors and appliances. Gridstream communication devices are currently being deployed to millions of residential and commercial sites across North America.